Journey of Water Opens at EPCOT Next Month — What to Know Before You Go

Walt Disney World’s new attraction, “Journey of Water, Inspired By Moana,” is finally set to make its splashy debut to the general public next month after an extended period of previews. The all-ages walk-through attraction will officially open in EPCOT’s World Nature Neighborhood on Oct. 16, 2023, along with a new Moana meet-and-greet near the attraction, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro announced at Disney’s Destination D23 fan event earlier this month. 

Destination D23 guests were among the first members of the public to experience Journey of Water, which showcases the phases of the water cycle through a series of interactive experiences. This weekend, the attraction will begin welcoming Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members for previews Sept. 24-29 and Oct. 1-4.

I’ve had the opportunity to check out the attraction during media previews as well as alongside Destination D23 guests and have visited it both day and night — two notably different experiences. From the best time of day to see to how to avoid getting wet (it’s easy!), here’s what to know before embarking on your first Journey of Water.

Journey of Water, Inspired By Moana — The Basics

The self-guided exploration trail takes guests on a circular walking voyage tracing water’s cyclical path from the sky to the ocean and back again. Trail markers introduce each of nine different zones representing phases of the water cycle — Rain, Stream, Wetland, Spring, Land, Lake, River, Ocean and Sky. 

Honoring EPCOT’s classic “edutainment” approach to attractions, illustrations and signage describe each water cycle, reminding guests how water connects us, before demonstrating how to “play” with the water in each zone. 

Run your hand across “strings” of water to play a series of water harps, each producing a different sound as though from other instruments. “Wave” to the water and watch it wave back. Raise your hand above a spout and watch the water rise to meet it. Walk slowly enough through a “curtain” of water and it will part to let you stay dry as you pass through.

Look for the “splash” icons on the ground, also noted on signs, to see where to stand to interact and activate water responses. Effects are responsive and unique to your gestures — so be sure to try different motions and waves to see how results vary.

You Don’t Have to Get Wet

Staying dry doesn’t mean sitting out the experience. Signage guides guests wanting to avoid making a splash — or getting splashed — along a “Dry Path.” Even on the Wet Path, though, I’ve managed to avoid any substantial soaking. Much of the water “play” requires only a light touch or no touch at all. 

But parents, be forewarned — while adults can absolutely experience all this attraction has to offer without getting wet, the youngest guests will likely find many of the pint-sized water features positively irresistible. Many of the interactive elements are accessible from a range of heights, and with plenty of ground-level splash pad-type fountains and effects, committed kiddos can absolutely get soaked.  

Day vs. Night Visits

I’ve visited Journey of Water on a blazing-hot August afternoon when splashes offered a welcome cool-down, as well as on a September evening after dark when I had no interest in getting soaked. 

By day, I spent more time testing my luck with the water, taking the Wet Paths and seeing if I could make my way through the attractions without getting splashed as shoots of water danced overhead. 

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana at EPCOT. (Photo Credit: Brooke McDonald)

After dark, light totally transforms the space for a luminous effect reminiscent of Pandora — The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Spaceship Earth’s points of light shine in the background and the illuminated water seems to take on even more personality.

Even if you visit by day to cool off, an evening stroll is a must-do for the stunning nighttime views, particularly in the Lake Zone, where Te Fiti rises over the glowing aqua-hued water.

Also adding to the repeatability of the attraction is a sort of unofficial scavenger hunt you can do along the way. Numerous characters from “Moana” — from the Kakamora to TeFiti to Moana’s grandmother as a stingray — are carved into the rockwork throughout the attraction. See how many you can spot. 

Lastly, don’t shy away from visiting during a busy time of day. Having first visited with a small group of media, I found the energy and excitement of more guests interacting with water features all around me to be contagious. One of the most exciting effects — the Ocean finale, is best activated by a group of people motioning in unison, joining in with friends and strangers to create a wonderfully celebratory sense of community. 

Where to Meet Moana

Moana fans should know that Journey of Water is, just as the name suggests, only “Inspired by Moana.” Subtle nods to the film come through in the artwork, music, rock carvings, and Polynesian-inspired elements throughout the attraction, but don’t expect to see any animatronics or other in-your-face details from the film. Guests eager for more Moana can meet her in a new dedicated meet-and-greet space opening Oct. 16 across from the attraction.

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